Pastis is Napa Valley Distillery‘s California inspired homage to French Pastis. It is light, refreshing, and delightful on ice all year round! So what is Pastis? Almost every country has an interpretation of an anise flavored spirit. Think: Absinthe, Aguardiente, Anisette, Arak, Galliano, Herbsaint, Oghi, Ouzo, and Sambuca. At the turn of the 19th century, Absinthe — the infamous “Green Fairy” and beloved companion of many bohemians of the day — was the most consumed anise flavored spirit. In 1914, in order to protect the wine industry, all alcoholic products over 16 percent were outlawed in France. These laws were repealed at the end of the Great War in 1918, with the exception of Absinthe. Fearing the return of Absinthe, anise flavored spirits were authorized on a case-by-case basis. In the vacuum created by an imbalance of demand and supply, an enterprising young salesman, Paul Richard, launched a new anise flavored spirit called Pastis, which quickly gained worldwide popularity.
As an avid enthusiast of all distilled spirits, especially fine French spirits, NVD proprietor Arthur Hartunian sought to create his own California-inspired homage to French Pastis. The result is a delightful Papillon Pastis, which is expertly crafted using a proprietary blend of all natural herbal essences. Papillon Pastis is distinctive in flavor, and in color, as they have bottled it at 40 percent alcohol. This is just below the point that the full characteristic Pastis louche (clouding) occurs. Enjoy with ice or serve chilled with a splash of water to experience the ultimate “Pastis” experience. A Votre Santé!